Losing weight is often viewed as the best way to improve health and longevity, but this may not always be the case, according to an expert who has conducted research in the area
12:47, 26 Mar 2025
Close up of woman's feet standing on scales on wooden floor(Image: Copyright Dazeley/Getty)
Losing weight could potentially be detrimental to your health and increase the risk of premature death, according to an expert. Despite the common belief that shedding pounds is a surefire way to enhance health and longevity, it can sometimes have the reverse effect, says Barbara Pierscionek, Professor of Research and Innovation at Anglia Ruskin University.
Professor Pierscionek stated: "Many studies have explored the relationship between weight changes and mortality, as well as mortality in obese people with heart disease. These studies often suggest that excessive weight is unhealthy and that people with obesity and heart disease should lose weight.
"However, findings from a recent study, of which I was a co-author, challenge this assumption. Our research indicates that significant weight loss – greater than 10kg (22lbs) – can actually increase the risk of early death in obese people with cardiovascular disease."
The study conducted by Professor Pierscionek utilised data from over 8,000 participants in the UK Biobank, a comprehensive resource for medical research that includes genetic data. The weight changes observed in the study spanned an average period of nine years, reports Plymouth Live.
Professor Pierscionek has highlighted to The Conversation: " While both obesity and cardiovascular disease are known to increase the risk of early death, in obese people with cardiovascular disease, weight loss – intended to improve health – can have the opposite effect. The relationship between body weight and illness is complex.
"Though obesity contributes to cardiovascular problems, studies have also shown an increased risk of early death in those with chronic heart failure who are lean, and in people with coronary artery disease whose weight fluctuates. Obesity rates are rising, but simply focusing on weight loss may not be the answer."
She further explained that the traditional measure of a healthy weight – the body mass index (BMI) – might not be suitable for everyone, stating: "Some people may tolerate higher weights without adverse health effects. The real question isn't how quickly weight should be lost, but how quickly it should be lost for each person.
"Given the current evidence, we cannot accurately determine an ideal weight range that's universally beneficial for health. However, intriguing patterns are emerging from various countries.
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"For instance, Tonga has a high rate of obesity, yet it experiences significantly lower rates of heart-disease-related deaths than many European countries where obesity is less prevalent. Tonga also reports lower levels of alcohol consumption and suicide than most European nations.
"Health encompasses both physical and mental wellbeing. Shifting the focus to holistic wellbeing and happiness may offer more lasting health benefits. Treating obesity requires a comprehensive approach, addressing all underlying factors contributing to the condition."